With $500 in your pocket, you all of a sudden open on your own to a few of the most Best Acoustic Guitars Under $500. While we aren’t yet in the premium market, the guitars in this group sure do really feel a great deal higher-end, with some punching well above their weight in terms of look, feel and also tone.
Whether you have your heart established on a huge brand name like Fender, Epiphone or Seagull, or enjoy with whatever feels like the very best bang for your buck, you’ll most likely locate it on our graph below. Note that, on this page, we are just checking out steel-string acoustics. For nylon-stringed versions, be sure to check out our post on the best acoustic guitar under 500
Let’s inspect them out!
Contents
Leading 9 Best Acoustic Guitars Under $500
1. Yamaha L Collection LS6
The Yamaha L-Series LS6 is a premium choice for guitarists seeking both elegance and performance. With its solid Engelmann spruce top treated with A.R.E. technology, it delivers a rich, warm tone that improves over time. The rosewood back and sides enhance projection, making it suitable for both strumming and fingerstyle players. Equipped with Yamaha’s SRT Zero Impact pickup, it ensures a natural amplified sound on stage. Balanced, versatile, and beautifully crafted, the LS6 offers professional-level quality at a mid-range price.
Specifications:
- Body: Solid Engelmann spruce top, rosewood back & sides
- Neck: 5-ply mahogany/rosewood
- Fingerboard: Rosewood
- Electronics: SRT Zero Impact Pickup
- Finish: Natural
Pros:
- High-quality solid top enhances resonance and warmth.
- Comfortable concert size ideal for fingerstyle and smaller players.
- Reliable pickup system for stage use.
- Premium tonewoods in an affordable range.
Cons:
-
Slightly higher price within the budget range.
2. Seagull S6 Original
The Seagull S6 Original is an award-winning acoustic that stands out for its craftsmanship and affordability. Built in Canada, it features a pressure-tested cedar top and wild cherry back and sides, delivering a warm yet bright tone. Its modified dreadnought shape enhances resonance while ensuring comfort for long sessions. The tapered headstock ensures stable tuning and smoother playability. Perfect for beginners and intermediate players alike, the S6 has earned a reputation for durability, rich sound, and excellent value.
Specifications:
- Body: Solid cedar top, wild cherry back & sides
- Neck: Silver leaf maple
- Fingerboard: Rosewood
- Scale Length: 25.5”
- Made in Canada
Pros:
- Warm, rich tone thanks to solid cedar top.
- Durable Canadian craftsmanship.
- Balanced projection suitable for multiple genres.
- Comfortable neck profile for beginners and intermediates.
Cons:
-
No built-in electronics (acoustic only).
3. Epiphone Hummingbird Pro
A modern take on a classic, the Epiphone Hummingbird Studio blends vintage charm with versatile performance. Its solid spruce top and mahogany body deliver a balanced tone with deep lows and shimmering highs. The iconic hummingbird pickguard design adds timeless appeal. Equipped with a Fishman Sonicore pickup and Presys preamp, it performs equally well unplugged or amplified, making it stage-ready. Known for smooth playability and strong projection, this guitar is ideal for singer-songwriters and folk-inspired musicians.
Specifications:
- Body: Select spruce top, mahogany back & sides
- Neck: Mahogany
- Fingerboard: Pau Ferro
- Electronics: Fishman Sonitone pickup system
- Finish: Vintage Hummingbird burst
Pros:
- Iconic Hummingbird design with vintage aesthetics.
- Versatile tones, great for both strumming and fingerpicking.
- Reliable Fishman electronics for amplified play.
- Affordable version of a legendary Gibson model.
Cons:
-
Slightly bulky dreadnought body may not suit smaller players.
4. Breedlove Discovery Concerto
The Breedlove DSCO01SSMA offers eco-conscious design with impressive tonal quality. Built with sustainably sourced solid tonewoods, it delivers a bright, clear, and balanced sound across all registers. The slim neck profile enhances playability, making it suitable for beginners and professionals alike. Known for Breedlove’s signature attention to detail, it features excellent intonation and projection. Whether you’re strumming chords or playing intricate fingerstyle, this guitar provides reliable performance with a focus on sustainability and modern craftsmanship.
Specifications:
- Body: Solid Sitka spruce top, mahogany back & sides
- Neck: Mahogany
- Fingerboard: Ovangkol
- Scale Length: 25.3”
- Body Style: Concert
Pros:
- Solid top offers strong projection and clarity.
- Environmentally sustainable wood sourcing.
- Slim neck profile for comfortable playability.
- Distinct Breedlove tone with balanced mids.
Cons:
-
Lacks built-in electronics for stage use.
5. Fender Sonoran SCE
The Fender CD-60SCE is an excellent all-in-one package for musicians who want quality and convenience. Featuring a solid spruce top with mahogany back and sides, it delivers a bold and versatile tone. The cutaway design allows easy access to higher frets, while the Fishman pickup ensures great amplified sound. This bundle includes essential accessories such as a hard case, tuner, strap, extra strings, and instructional DVD, making it beginner-friendly. Reliable, durable, and stage-ready, the CD-60SCE offers exceptional value in an affordable bundle.
Specifications:
- Body: Solid spruce top, mahogany back & sides
- Neck: Mahogany with easy-to-play rolled fingerboard edges
- Electronics: Fishman pickup system
- Included: Hard case, tuner, strap, strings, cable, picks, DVD, polishing cloth
Pros:
- Full bundle with all accessories, ideal for beginners.
- Solid spruce top ensures bright, resonant tone.
- Comfortable neck for smooth fretting.
- Fishman electronics for reliable amplified sound.
Cons:
-
Bundle may add to the price compared to guitar-only options.
6. The Loar LH-204 Brownstone
The LH-204-BR Brownstone Small Body Acoustic Guitar is a top pick for players who love a warm, vintage-inspired tone. With its small body design, it’s comfortable to hold, making it a great choice for both beginners and traveling musicians. The solid spruce top and mahogany back deliver clear, balanced sound with rich resonance. Its retro aesthetics and sunburst finish also appeal to those seeking classic style. Lightweight and responsive, this guitar works well for fingerstyle and folk music.
Specifications:
- Body: Small body style, brownstone finish
- Top: Solid spruce
- Back & Sides: Mahogany
- Neck: Mahogany with rosewood fingerboard
- Scale: 25.5″
Pros:
- Lightweight and comfortable for long sessions
- Warm, balanced tone ideal for fingerpicking
- Vintage-inspired design with great aesthetics
Cons:
-
Limited projection compared to dreadnoughts
7. Epiphone EJ-200SCE
The Epiphone J200 EC Studio is a stunning jumbo acoustic-electric that combines powerful projection with modern playability. Featuring a solid spruce top and maple back and sides, it delivers bright, punchy tones ideal for strumming or live performances. Its onboard Fishman electronics ensure excellent amplified sound, while the vintage sunburst finish adds a timeless look. Comfortable to play, the slim taper neck is great for long sessions. This guitar is perfect for those seeking bold sound and classic jumbo styling at an affordable price.
Specifications:
- Body: Jumbo cutaway with solid spruce top
- Back & Sides: Maple
- Electronics: Fishman Sonicore pickup & Presys preamp
- Finish: Vintage Sunburst
Pros:
- Big, resonant sound with excellent low-end
- Built-in electronics for live performance
- Iconic J200 styling at a budget price
Cons:
-
Jumbo size can feel bulky for smaller players
8. Blueridge BR-43
The Blueridge BR-43 Contemporary Series 000 Guitar is designed for players who want professional sound at a mid-range price. With a solid Sitka spruce top and mahogany back and sides, it offers a warm, dynamic tone suitable for both fingerstyle and flatpicking. Its 000 body size provides comfort without sacrificing projection, making it a versatile choice. The slim neck and smooth action appeal to beginners and experienced players alike. Blueridge’s attention to vintage detailing also makes this guitar visually striking.
Specifications:
- Body: 000 style
- Top: Solid Sitka spruce
- Back & Sides: Mahogany
- Neck: Mahogany with rosewood fingerboard
- Scale: 25.5″
Pros:
- Crisp, articulate sound great for fingerstyle
- Vintage-style detailing with modern playability
- Excellent build quality for its price
Cons:
-
Not as loud as larger body guitars
9. Gretsch G5022CE Rancher
The Gretsch G5022CE Rancher Jumbo Cutaway is a statement piece for guitarists who want both style and performance. Its jumbo body delivers bold, booming tones with excellent low-end response, perfect for strumming. The Savannah Sunset finish stands out on stage, while the triangular soundhole adds unique character. Equipped with Fishman electronics, it produces clear and powerful amplified sound. The cutaway design allows easy access to higher frets, making it versatile for modern playing styles. A great choice for performers seeking eye-catching design and big sound.
Specifications:
- Body: Jumbo with cutaway
- Top: Solid spruce
- Back & Sides: Maple
- Electronics: Fishman Isys III pickup system
- Finish: Savannah Sunset gloss
Pros:
- Eye-catching design with triangular soundhole
- Rich projection and strong stage presence
- Onboard electronics perform well live
Cons:
-
Larger body may be uncomfortable for some
What Type Of Guitar Can You Get For $500?
In this cost variety you can locate some outstanding acoustics for $500, generally with some modification left over from that quantity!
Contrasted to the majority of acoustic guitars coming it at under $300, these sub-$ 500 acoustics use even more selection as well as better. This can include more selection in guitar shape/size, as well as various styles, better rosettes, as well as much better overall detailing.
That Should Buy a Guitar in this Range?
With a midrange cost that most individuals can afford, you will find virtually every sort of guitarist purchasing in this classification.They are likewise excellent guitars for laid-back players that desire more than an all-laminate acoustic to play around on.
Are $500 Guitars Upgrade-able?
Certainly! While the hardware is typically better than what you would find on a guitar in the lower arrays, you can turn a good guitar right into a terrific one by making some modifications.
While it may seem complicated at first, there is no need to be afraid of making aftermarket upgrades to your brand-new guitar– whether something as basic as a brand-new nut/saddle or an innovative preamp system. Naturally, if you don’t have the self-confidence to do it yourself, then find a great tech to do the benefit you.
However, don’t make these upgrades with an eye to offer the guitar for even more cash– it’s better to do the upgrades to make the tool job much better for you. What you might think is an upgrade, someone else may not such as!
Should I Get a Made Use Of Guitar?
Purchasing made use of is absolutely a choice, although if you are dropping this path, we recommend doing your homework.
First of all, stay away from auction sites and stay away from pawn stores and flea markets– while there are suitable bargains to be had here, there are similarly as numerous challenges of purchasing from unreputable sources.
Instead, head to your regional guitar shop, who possibly have a choice of good-quality made use of acoustics.
If you find a made use of guitar you such as, prepare to pull the trigger given that there is no guarantee that it will exist the next time you return. Keep your wits regarding you as well as you just might get a truly good deal!
The Final Word
The models Best Acoustic Guitars Under $500 are usually exceptional, with lots to crow around. In this variety, you can have a tool that seems superb, looks great, as well as has all the bells and whistles you desire, without damaging the bank. While higher-end acoustics may not have changed a lot throughout the years, this midrange team is having a little bit of a revolution– and also the victors are us, the guitar buying public.
Ultimately, take your time, browse our checklist, determine what you like, after that go and get the best guitar for you. Simply bear in mind, guitars resemble potato chips– you can not have just one and see you at the site
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